As if to streamline smooth operations and comfort of the students, last week saw officers from the HELB and the University (UF) camp within the university to help in addressing any issues that might be affecting the comrades. Dr Edwin Wanyonyi, the CEO of the UF was also present at the matriculation ceremony at the invitation of the Alupe University’s Vice Chancellor, Prof Peter L. Barasa as the guest speaker.
“We really look forward to HELB’s support in aggressive sensitization on application that will help in improving the number of applicants and statistics as regards the funding to students”, urged Prof Orina, the Deputy Vice Chancellor in charge of Academics, Research, & Students Affairs.
The issue on delays in disbursement was discussed with the HELB officials raising the fact that in some cases, the applicants apply late or do not submit the correct information at the time of application.
“It is quite alarming that deserving students fail to get the funds due to their Ms Monica Muhoho, an officer of HELB observed that research findings form her study indicate that students in the rural universities are most susceptible to fraud from unscrupulous con-people who take advantage of the students’ anxiety and lack of the right knowledge in handling finances from the higher education funding bodies. The delegation from HELB included; Ms Lydia, Mr Brian, M. Carolyne, while Mr Nandasaba extensively talked sensitized bout the new University Funding (UF) model.
According to the Ministry of Education State Department for Higher Education, the university funding model in Kenya, was introduced in May 2023. It focuses on a student-centered approach that prioritizes financial need, separating student placement from funding. It combines scholarships, loans, and household contributions to support students, aiming to enhance equity and access to higher education.